Audio Clip

This Douglas-fir sample from the Southwest has annual tree rings dating back to the year 1527. The narrowing of the rings that formed from the 1560s through the 1590s indicates that the tree grew little during the 16th century megadrought.

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- A new study looks at drought from the forests’ perspective. If the Southwest is warmer and drier as climate models suggest, widespread tree death is likely.